Template - Date: Brisbane Masters ‘WS6’

The World Champion faced the world number one in a repeat of their epic World Championship semi-final and once again the pair didn’t disappoint in the final event of the PDC’s tour Down Under. It was Cross’ first televised title since his victory at Alexandra Palace in January and his first ever World Series Crown.

The decider began with Cross missing two darts to hold throw in the opening leg allowing Van Gerwen to step in and break. A 114 finish from the Dutchman in the next leg extended the world number one’s lead to two. Cross then put together a run of four consecutive legs including a superb 130 finish to gain the initiative.

Van Gerwen then stopped the rot in style taking out 170 for a 12 dart break before going on to lead 6-4 with a 130 finish of his own. This string of poor legs seemed to spark the Englishman who hit six maximums after that point to regain control.

Seven legs on the spin highlighted an impressive performance from the World Champion who dominated Van Gerwen from the mid-point of the match to win the title at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. Cross finished with an average of 106, one of his highest ever televised scores and rounded off the three week trip with his first World Series victory.

“It’s been fantastic this week, I started a bit slow but I knew what I had to do and that was take my chances,” said Cross.“Everything will fall in place and I am a big believer in that but I am still learning I am still progressing and to get another win tonight is massive.

“To win anything these days is special because the field’s so strong,” added the world number three.“This is a kickstart for the rest of the year and we will look to September and promising things there.”

Michael van Gerwen who is the most successful player in the history of the World Series was aiming to win his second crown on the world tour this year after his success in Auckland but came unstuck in the decider and spoke of his disappointment after the match.

“I can only blame myself tonight, I had chances to get further in front and didn’t take them. “You can’t do that against players like Rob and I’m disappointed tonight but it’s been another amazing trip and I thank everyone who supported me.”